Home Articles Posted by Izy Berry (Page 52)
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Why Dubai is a Shopper’s Paradise
Shopping in Dubai can be heavenly for the soul. No really, with so much on offer for every taste and style, planning a trip to Dubai just for shopping is not a bad idea at all. In fact, if you live nearby this vibrant city, book your tickets now. Even if you live in trendy urban centers, Dubai shopping can be a lot of fun. So, for instance, book your Dubai flight tickets now to experience some shopping that can offer you maximum retail therapy.
Malls
Visiting the malls in Dubai alone can require a few days. You can begin your shopping trip by walking the many floors of the ‘Dubai Mall’ (the largest in the world) and taking in the vibrancy of this urban structure. For a different experience, you can head to ‘Mall of the Emirates’, which is first-of-its-kind shopping resort.
For a more cultural experience, visit the ‘Ibn Battuta Mall’. Enjoy art along with your shopping at the ‘Wafi Mall’. It can be a different experience than simply visiting the malls with urban designs. For those looking for bargains while shopping in Dubai’s malls, the outlet mall is the place to be. At the ‘Dubai Outlet Mall’, you can find amazing bargains on international design labels.
Souks
No visit to Dubai is complete without experiencing shopping at the local markets or the souks. Even if you don’t plan to buy any gold while in Dubai, go to the ‘Deira Souk’ for the sheer experience of a marketplace for the golden metal. But if you wish to purchase gold here, you can even bargain for the best price!
Try the ‘Bur Dubai Souk’ to buy the most amazing fabric and textiles from the region. You can buy traditional perfumes, spices and handicrafts from the many souks in Dubai. Do try and load up on saffron, spiced teas and dried fruits.
You can also try the slightly modern versions of souks (that are not malls) such as ‘Souk Al Bahar’ for authentic Middle Eastern fares to take back home. You can find local delicacies, handicrafts, textiles and small items at bargain prices. Another great shopping place you can visit is the ‘Souk Madinat’. It can be quieter than the traditional souks as this is not the place for haggling. But it can be ideal for those who wish to enjoy their shopping in relative peace and quiet.
Streets
Street shopping is one of the best ways to experience a new city. Now, street shopping in Dubai may be slightly (or a whole of) different than other places thronged with tourists. If you are in Dubai on a Friday, do not miss the chance to visit ‘ARTE’ – the artisan market. You can find artisans gathering at various locations around the city where you can buy handicrafts, jewelry and various baked goods and other culinary treats. Also, visit the ‘Covent Garden Market’ for quirky dresses and t-shirts, purses and kaftans.
If you wish to see a laidback side of Dubai’s shopping scene, ‘Ripe Market’ may be something you might enjoy. You can check the schedule beforehand as this may change from season to season. You can enjoy authentic foods, crafts and local produce at these various open air markets around Dubai.
If you enjoy shopping, Dubai can be a fun destination to visit. It is the ideal place to go on a quick weekend shopping and cultural trip. If you live in India’s western coast such as in Pune, a quick trip to Dubai is even possible on a whim. You can simply book Pune to Dubai flight tickets and enjoy a few days of different kind of shopping and marketplaces.
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Tips for a stress-free move to Hong Kong
How to manage everything, from packing to international removals, when moving to Hong Kong
Moving to Hong Kong, even for short-term period, is incredibly popular – and it isn’t hard to see why. Hong Kong is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. Choosing to take the plunge and move overseas is one of the biggest decisions a person can make.
In all the excitement of moving, it can be easy to overlook some tasks on your moving to-do list. Packing, getting your documents in order, and organising international removals might not be the most exciting part of a move abroad, they are incredibly important steps.
Following these crucial steps for moving to Hong Kong will ensure a stress-free beginning to your new life overseas.
Decide what you want to take to Hong Kong with you
When moving abroad, it can be tempting to avoid taking larger pieces with you and only take the bare minimum. But moving abroad shouldn’t mean parting with your belongings – especially when they have sentimental value. Carefully planning your budget means that you should be able to account for moving all of the possessions that mean the most to you. A reputable mover such as Excess International can guarantee that your most precious belongings arrive with you, for a reasonable cost. Sending your household contents across the world is their specialty, so they can ensure it’s hassle-free.
Start packing early
It’s a common error to leave packing to the last minute. With so many exciting things to consider when moving to Hong Kong, organising your things can fall by the wayside. But starting early can make one of the more tedious moving chores more manageable. International shipping warrants a certain standard of packing – especially for fragile goods or valuables. Being proactive with careful packing is the key to avoiding breakages. A useful packing tip is to line crates with bubble wrap and load heavier items first.
Make sure you know your way around the paperwork
Before emigrating to Hong Kong, it is of the utmost importance to have your paperwork in order.
Visas
Depending on your passport, you may be eligible to stay in Hong Kong as a visa-free visitor for up to 180 days. You might also have Hong Kong ‘Right to Abode’ or ‘Right to Land’; this means you can work and live in Hong Kong unconditionally. For example, UK passport holders have a ‘Right to Land’ in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong ID Cards
Everyone aged 11+ in Hong Kong is required to hold a Hong Kong ID card.
Octopus cards
Octopus cards are one of the most important little pieces of plastic you can have with you in Hong Kong. This debit-style card is mostly used for public transport, but it can pay for parking, groceries and vending machines.
What can your international removals company handle for you?
Labelling, numbering and inventorying your items
Items that you’re bringing overseas must be accurately labelled and inventoried. If you’re using an international removals company, they will do this for you as part of the shipping process.
Making sure that your items are with you on arrival in Hong Kong
International removals companies are global logistics experts. Trying to ship your personal effects and belongings by yourself can be stressful, and lead to things going missing or unnecessary delays. A reputable international removals company can take care of the hard work for you.
Every move is different, with its own unique circumstances and challenges. But these guidelines will help you take care of the nitty gritty, so that you can focus on enjoying an exciting new chapter in your life.
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5 Layout Designs to Incorporate the Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair within any Chamber
The Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair boasts a distinguishably extraordinary dimensional configuration. Posing as a purely iconic article in the contemporary furnishing industry, it requires considerable, introspective assessment for its placement. Dating back to 1929 it exudes a timeless vibe as intended by Eileen Gray. In order to assist your venture in placing this masterpiece, we’ve constructed a vivid guideline of schematic suggestions:
- Symmetrical Accents and a scenic background:
Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair comprises of padded circular tubes, encased within a molded fiberglass shell. A well-proportioned build like this radiates a modern profile, paired with spectacular comfort. Therefore, if you position it as illustrated in the picture above alongside chic, minimalistic furniture pieces like reflective glass, stainless steel, etc. you will be able to emulate futuristic moods within your lounging area. The converging colors, natural backdrop lighting, and refined outlook all complete the look.
- Lounging with wholesome scenery:
Simplicity and elegance are the two standout characteristics the Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair has to offer. Inherently stylistic, bold and flattering by itself, it is perfectly capable of occupying the position of a free-standing article. In the image above you can visualize the serene aura articulated in its refined and sharp lines. If you wish to further augment the space, you can add-on unobtrusive pieces like a solo standing, single colored torchiere lamps, arched or floor-lamps, even light-structured tables as is used in the picture above. To accent, the true beauty, try not to break the color-pattern by supplementing the chair with matching items.
- Contemporary yet cozy:
Despite its strong, daunting presence, the Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair’s versatile material and physical appearance grant it the ability to mold seamlessly in cozy interior environments. The example chosen above shows how open and expansive rooms with the bare minimum can be enhanced with the addition of a humble, tasteful and inherently charming seating option. Hanging acrylics, pastels or portrait oriented paintings behind or around the chair emulates a tastefully dramatic and genteel ambiance. Positioning it parallel to a counter, settee or fireplace adds an eclectic touch.
- Complement your aesthetic lounge with a flare of fancy adornments:
Posing as an artistic focal point, the Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair gives off a very strong yet pleasant aura. If you have a location featuring wide-paned European style windows, mammoth sized rustic carpentry, spacious arrangements, and bohemian ornaments, then choosing from the colorful selection of Cashmere, Boucle Wool, Velvet, Top Grain, Aniline and Vintage options well grant you the freedom to diversify your setup. This is a great way to break free from mundane, dull, mainstream and monotonous designs found in other homes.
- The Dual Effect:
In this illustration, we attempt to demonstrate clean-cut territories that combine sophistication with functionality. The minimal accenting, dark-hued and dynamic space and edgy tones allow for a statement worthy title for the Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair. By showcasing the craftsmanship via dual placement you can establish a neutral-looking setup whilst subtly adding a multidimensional aura of complexity. The beauty of this sample picture is that this look can be integrated into office spaces, homes, and even public platforms.
Owing to the heavy-duty yet comforting nature of the Eileen Gray Bibendum Chair, you can come up with infinite arrangement selections. We’ve provided you with a basic guideline to make your lives a little more aesthetically pleasing.
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How to invest in your motorcycle
If you’re like most people, you may have shaken your head as the bitcoin recently plummeted. This is a great example of why it’s a good idea to invest in things you care about- even if the value falls on the market, you’ll still be able to enjoy how much that investment means to you.
In fact, many different types of motorcycles are seeing the ever-increasing value- especially motorcycles like Brough Superior and Vincent. In January last year, the Vincent Black Lightning sold for $929,000 at auction in Las Vegas. That’s an appreciation of 4,475%. These types of machines appeal to motorcyclists of all kind- not just because of how valuable they are, but because of the nostalgia that goes along with them.
So how can you invest in your own motorcycle without breaking the bank? The best way is to search for custom motorcycle parts online. These include everything from foot controls to electrical parts, seats, drive, and trans, and axles and wheels.
Another good way to invest in your motorcycle? Look for oem parts for motorcycles. There are thousands of parts available, made my top brands like Suzuki, Yamaha, Honda, BMW, Kawasaki, and more.
You’re probably well aware of how important good tires are for your motorcycle. In fact, this is not only a good investment, but it’s also a smart, safe option as well. Luckily, you can find discount motorcycle tires online. These can be sold for a much cheaper price since you don’t need to pay for a lot of the costs associated with keeping those tires in a brick and mortar store.
There are also a number of cheap ways you can upgrade your motorcycle. For example, regularly washing and waxing your bike not only makes it look great, but it helps you see any problems as soon as they arise- and before they become large, expensive problems.
Finally, if you haven’t replaced your helmet recently, now’s the time to do so. Not only will it go with the upgrades you’ve made to your bike, but it will ensure it’s protecting you properly, fitting well, and giving you the ventilation you need.
Are you investing in your motorcycle in 2019? Leave a comment below and let me know which ways you’ll be upgrading your bike.
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Tips for Keeping a Healthy Skin Care Routine While Traveling
As we get older, our skin care routine changes. Products that we used when we were younger no longer work the same because our skin is changing. All of the products that we use for our skin are in large sizes. In order for them to fit into our bag, the product has to be poured into a travel size container. With matrixyl, it fits right into your bag because it’s only one-ounce. When it’s time for you to cleanse your face, all you have to do is remove it from your bag and rub into the skin.
Set Your Alarm on Cellphone
When you travel, it may be difficult to maintain your skincare routine. By using the alarm on your cellphone, you can continue to use the products. When the alarm goes off to cleanse your face, just go to a rest stop or wherever you are that has water and cleanse your face. Once you’ve cleansed, just dab a few drops of your vitamin c and e serum and feel like a new person. Once you arrive at the place where you’re going to sleep, just set the alarm again, so you’re prepared for your nighttime routine.
Keep Products in a Small Makeup Bag
A makeup bag comes in handy when you’re traveling. If you’re at a restaurant, you can just excuse yourself to freshen up. When you want to moisturize your face, use 100 squalane oil. The moisturizer is light but does its job. The skin will be more vibrant and youthful looking the longer you use it. No one will know that you moisturized your face because it’s not oily or greasy like other oils. It’ll fit right back into your bag once you’re done and you can go about your day or night.
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More Than Just Beaches And Alligators
There are some destinations that just remain iconic in the world of travel. Rome, Melbourne, Hong Kong and…Florida? Just a little Google search of this area of the world reveals a lot about the stereotypes that surround it. You’ll read that it’s full of alligators, elderly people and hot and humid all year round. You’d be left with the impression that really all you get to do is just hit the beach every day and work on your tan, that’s if not pouring with rain, something you also hear a lot about when talking about this state.
But really, is Florida and some of its’ major cities such as Orlando and Miami worth making the trip for if you’re, especially if you’re outside the States? We take a look at some of the lesser known attractions in this fascinating part of the world and prove that it’s not all Disney.
Santa Rosa Beach
Sure it’s a beach but this one is sublime. It’s a quieter, hidden away gem of a bay in Walton County that features a seemingly endless stretch of pure white sand and blue seas to rival any major tourist resort. With a welcoming community and a range of accommodation options, it’s well worth taking yourself away from the main drag to experience some peace and tranquillity.
This unique nature preserve features startling rock formations, fascinating wildlife and a beautiful landscape. Located on Jupiter Island you’ll need to boats for rent to get there but it’s well worth making the trip.
Bahia Honda State Park
Located in the Keys, this beautiful island features 500 acres of lush, tropical landscape and beaches that make it well worth spending a day or even longer there. Kayak around the island, camp out and enjoy some beachcombing and exploring.
There’s also some great snorkelling on offer so head out to mile marker 37 for a great break from city life and explore until your heart’s content.
Weeki Wachee Springs
A combination of the natural springs and a water park, this destination is a great day out for families. Located on the Weeki Wachee River, there are mermaid shows, kayak tours and rides to enjoy. If that doesn’t take your fancy, then just spend a day relaxing by the river and taking in the stunning surroundings.
Molasses Reef
If you find the underwater world fascinating, then head to Molasses Reef at Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This fascinating site is open for divers to explore and there are also more shallow areas for snorkelers too.
Florida isn’t all glitz and glam, there are some fascinating natural habitats to explore, relax and stay at. It’s well worth looking past all the stereotypes surrounding this state and finding a different side to Florida that helps to make it the perfect destination for lone explorers, couples or families and is so much more than just cocktails on the beach.
Take some time to research Florida today and see why it’s more than just Disney.
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Where to spend your summer staycation in the UK: A camping holiday guide
With warmer weather just around the corner, many of us have already been dreaming of the perfect summer break in the sun. According to a recent survey, three out of five British people choose to take at least one annual holiday on our own shores. So what makes the UK such a holiday hotspot?
Camping is a very popular pastime in the UK, as each year, sites fill up to capacity and our favourite locations become hotspots for tourists from all over the country. Camping holidays are also a great way to save money – travelling just a couple of hours by car can transport you to a whole different world, where you’ll be surrounded by nature and beautiful countryside. If you’re deciding on where you should spend your summer staycation, Motorparks Citoren Oldham have put together this helpful guide to some of the top camping hotspots in the country.
1. The Lake District: Baysbrown Farm, Great Langdale
It’s not hard to see why thousands of British holiday-makers flock to The Lake District year after year. Home to the England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, the Lake District boasts tremendous views of some the most popular locations, such as Keswick, Derwentwater and Windermere.
Baysbrown Farm campsite is situated just below Crinkle Crags, Bowfell, and boats plenty of stunning views. Visit the lake-free valley of Great Langdale for some escapism away from the mayhem of everyday life. The bridle pathways through the valley part the way for some fabulous bike rides that showcase the views of the famous peaks.
2. Cornwall: Bay View Farm
With so many beautiful beaches on offer, Cornwall has been a favourite for tourists from all over the world for decades. Home to a selection of sandy coastlines and sheltered coves, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled to a whole different continent! The beautiful Bay View Farm campsite overlooks the sandy Looe Bay, making it an ideal place to visit with your partner. Try an outdoor picnic for two with a view! The small fishing village of Polperro is close by with its selection of fudge shops, tea rooms and art galleries. You can even go shopping for a fresh catch of the day to cook on your BBQ that evening.
3. Argyll: Caolasnacon, Kinlochleven
Up in the Scottish Highlands, you’ll find Caolasnacon Caravan and Camping Park nestled amongst some of the UK’s wildest and most beautiful scenery. Offering the opportunity to pitch your tent right by the water makes it a perfect spot for water activities, such as canoeing and kayaking, and of course, provides a constant soundtrack of lapping waves.
The park is also home to various species of rare wildlife. Otters find habitat in the Loch, whilst golden eagles fly above. The site provides a unique opportunity for campers to get away from bustling life and enjoy the natural scenery that the Highlands offer.
4. North Yorkshire: Hooks House Farm, Robin Hoods Bay
As the largest county in England, North Yorkshire has a huge selection of natural environments, quaint towns and sandy shores for tourists to enjoy. Hooks House Farm boasts a high hill location looking over sloping grassy fields that lead to a breath-taking sea view. If you pitch your camping tent in the right spot, you could even enjoy a sunset or two with a glass of your favourite drink in hand.
This campsite is the perfect starting point for those looking to take on the coast-to-coast walk across the Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors and the Lake District before finishing on the Cumbrian coast. You can even find a small beach onsite, where children will enjoy a spot of rock pool fishing. Of course, you can also enjoy the sea waves in the summer months by taking a swim, or a little paddle.
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7 Insanely Cool & Glamour Bachelor Party Locations
As a groom-to-be, you need an escape to properly honour the inevitable end of your singleness. And, the pressure is on the best man to deliver the perfect bachelor party. Bachelor parties are about having fun and celebrating the future groom’s last night of freedom.
Whether your groomsmen are the outdoorsy type or foodies who can’t wait to try out different cuisines, the crazy folks who want to hit every strip club or the guys who already have possibly everything they want, there’s bound to be the perfect destination for your friends. Here are some of the best bachelor party destinations that are not Las Vegas but can be just as luxury and extravagant when you want to:
Gold Coast, Australia
Known as the Las Vegas-like city of Australia, Gold Coast has become one of the best bucks party destinations in Australia. Gold Cost is a heavenly location for water lovers, and its stunning beaches provide the best beach bachelor party locations in Australia. For a more reserved bachelor party, there are several activities to engage in, including Clay bird shooting, go-karting, and several water sports.
There are also rainforests and canals, which are great for exploring. If you want to take the party to another level, the city has several bars and clubs, not to mention, golf games that include adult entertainment. Don’t forget to visit the casinos for a chance to have fun and win some cash.
Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Cabo San Lucas is one of the best summer bachelor party destinations in Mexico. Besides the world-famous nightlife, as well as, the action-packed adult-entertainment offerings, the city will keep you busy with plenty of fun outdoor activities, breathtaking scenery, and stunning beaches to drink tequila in.
During the day, have a sports fishing trip, take a pole dance cruise with some beautiful dancers, go zip lining, or take a scuba diving expedition to explore the amazing coral reef. At night, the city is all about booze and debauchery. Take one of the Cabo bar crawl tours, which are drink affairs that make for a crazy night.
Croatia, Croatia
Wedding plans can be overwhelming; the future groom needs an exhilarating experience to help him blow off some steam with his buddies. For the ultimate adrenaline thrill, go skydiving in Croatia.
Other daytime activities include a trip to the stunning islands just offshore, a fast and furious session at the Zagreb karting track, and a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park for a chance to view terraced lakes and breathtaking waterfalls. For some nighttime fun, Split won’t disappoint. Plus, the girls there are smoking hot.
Macau, China
Macau offers the most popular bachelor party locations for those who are into gambling. This gambler’s paradise hosts several great casinos, including the MGM Grand (caters only to seasoned players), The Galaxy casino complex, and the Venetian.
Besides taking casino tours, the groomsmen can visit some of the city’s main attractions like the Macao Tower, which offers splendid panoramic views of the city; Coloane Village for an authentic slice of Macanese culture, and the former Portuguese colony that offer skylines and landmarks that will leave you absolutely mesmerized.
Barcelona, Spain
If you are looking for the best bachelor party locations in Europe, look no further than Barcelona. Whether it’s a fancy party or you guys are travelling on a budget, this European city has something for everyone. It’s got the coolest clubs and bars right in the heart of the city.
Although nightclubs are worth experiencing, why not have a private party in the comfort of your hotel room and book a bunny girls’ show or invite strippers. For a more laid-back time, get tickets to watch a football match and have some snacks and light drinks while you cheer on.
Bangkok, Thailand
The exquisiteness of Thai cuisine is impossible to replicate; therefore, the only way your foodie buddies will enjoy it is by travelling straight to the source. It’s easy to fill your itinerary with luxury and relaxing activities in Bangkok. Parlours are plentiful here; so, you can unwind and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul with the Thai massage. You can also book a bachelor party package to enjoy plenty of drinks, your own DJ sound system, and some beautiful pole-dancing ladies. The city is filled with amazing nightlife, as well as, wonderful recreational activities during the day.
Bangkok isn’t just a budget-friendly choice for a bachelor party, it is, in fact, Bangkok is one of the affordable destination wedding spots. E88 Bangkok has a great post about planning an outdoor wedding in Bangkok. You can check it out if you want your bachelor/bachelorette parties and your wedding party to be held at the same destination.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam offers awesome bachelor party locations that you can only dream of; in a more intimate and compact setting. During the day, appease your intellectual whims with the world’s finest museums, sit back and relax on the water through the canals of Amsterdam, enjoy exciting street performers, or take a trip to the renowned red light district. Later, have a striptease dinner in one of the lavish restaurants where you get to enjoy a delicious meal, as well as, a sensual striptease show.
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5 Best Places to Buy a Vacation Home in 2019
When we think of buying a vacation home, we often visualize long sandy beaches, crystal blue seas and lush green countryside. Other more practical concerns related to the strength of the local economy and generally finding somewhere with a high standard of living. Cultural aspects are, for many, also a must. Having access to the very best in restaurants, bars and nightlife can be an essential element when it comes to investing overseas, as is having plenty to keep the kids entertained. But a location that successfully ticks all these boxes and more can be an elusive prospect. So, with that in mind, we’ve listed a few of the top cities in the world where, if you’re lucky, you might just find that perfect vacation home.
Panama City Beach, Florida
Buying a vacation home in Panama City Beach has become a hugely desirable prospect for many. Considered a town on the up-and-up, this is in part due to its combination of smart, sophisticated urban living and outstanding natural beauty. There’s no shortage of great neighbourhoods within the city limits, but one of the best areas to buy property has to be the beachfront itself, with the emphasis on great outdoor spaces that sit alongside an abundance of quality shops, bars and restaurants. It also offers a range of waterfront activities enjoyed year-round by residents and visitors alike.
Sunshine Coast, Australia
Perhaps the hottest place to buy property in Australia right now is the Sunshine Coast. This already much loved destination is a real draw right now, due to a lack of housing and a high level of population growth. And were you to become a resident, you can expect to enjoy perfect beaches, water sports and an amazing array of inland canals and waterways. The Sunshine Coast has also enjoyed something of a culinary revolution of late, offering up a dizzying array of eateries across the city: everything from fine dining to food trucks. Key to the Gold Coast’s appeal, however, is it’s an easy-going atmosphere, making it a real haven for sun-worshippers everywhere.
There are opportunities for Australians that are not ready to buy a vacation home, they may buy tickets in charity prize home draws to win a prize home on the Gold Coast. Doing so not only provides them with a chance to win some amazing homes, but it also provides much-needed funds for great Australian charities.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Argentina might not be at the forefront of your mind when it comes to finding a vacation home, but it’s definitely worth a second look. Buenos Aires has an economy that, in tune with the rest of the country, is growing rapidly, and the city offers its residents an easy escape to the kind of mountains and jungles that truly take the breath away. The locals are famous for their friendly and welcoming demeanor, and Argentina has an incredible wine region and famously great food. All of this combined makes Buenos Aires an unexpected yet appealing investment prospect.
Lisbon, Portugal
Over the last few years, Lisbon has become one of the best places to buy a home for a vacation. A quaint and wonderfully ramshackle city (the old quarter being a particular draw), it boasts an abundance of art and culture, making it increasingly popular with international travellers from across the globe. After the financial crash, Lisbon went through a painful economic downturn, but since then it’s enjoyed a real renaissance. Property is affordable and, the way things are going, it’s an investment that ought to pay dividends.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, it’s said, really has got it all. The best tapas bars imaginable, world-famous architecture and great nightlife, all situated right next to a plethora of beautiful beaches. Of particular interest is the Poblenou or beach area. At one time the industrial part of the city, it was regenerated for the Olympics in 1992, and since then the old textile warehouses mean loft-style apartments sit side-by-side with classic modernist buildings to create a truly unique blend of characteristics. All of this, of course, only minutes from both the seafront and the city centre. In short, something for everyone.
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Why you need to visit Italy this year
Italy is one of the most incredible countries in the world. Yup, I said it. I could go back again and again and would need to force myself to see new places so I don’t continually visit the same cities and towns I’ve already fallen in love with.
Here are some reasons to visit Italy this year:
Wandering through Venice
I don’t care what anyone says- Venice really is that incredible. We stayed in a monastery which had been converted into a cool hostel and absolutely loved it. I want to go back for at least a few more days, and buy more Venetian glass, deliberate over pretty, and enjoy some of the best gelato I’ve ever had.
While you can definitely ride in a gondola here, you’ll get a similar experience simply taking the water taxi whenever you want to get out and about.
Roaming in Rome
The day I stood in the Colosseum was one of those ‘pinch me, am I really here?’ experiences. Rome gets a bad rap, but I loved it- from its overcrowded tourist sites to the tiny streets with sidewalk cafes. Take long, boozy lunches, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and be sure to spend a few days longer than you think you’ll need.
Don’t forget to visit the Pantheon which was once a Roman temple. Today, it’s a church which you can visit for free and photograph its perfect proportions. The Piazza della Rotonda surrounds the Pantheon, and it’s the perfect place for a meal or cup of coffee.
Exploring Florence
I got sick in Florence, and I still loved it, which shows you how great it is. This is the place to buy art and hand-painted stationery. Be sure to head up the hill at sunset for a gorgeous view of the city, and check out the markets for Italian leather.
Check out the Loggia dei Lanzi which you’llfind in the Piazza della Signoria. This is a free, open-air museum which was originally designed by Orcagna in the 14th century.
When you get tired of exploring, head towards the Fountan of Neptune wehre there are plenty of excellent cafes to rest your feet and people watch.
Road tripping in the countryside
There are few places as suited for a road trip as Italy. Rent a car in Italy, and you’ll be able to take your time in the places you love and skip the places you’re not that interested in. Experiencing Italy by car allows you to pull over and take photos whenever you’d like, and listen to locals when they tell you about that cute town a few miles away.
Vatican City
There are few places with as much historical and religious significance as Vatican City. You can spend hours wandering through here, but don’t forget to visit the Sistine Chapel if you get a chance. Do yourself a favor and buy your tickets online. Remember: No photos in the chapel.
One of the best places to visit is the St Peter’s Basilica which was built between the 16th and 18th centuries. Here, you’ll see work by famous arches, including Michelangelo’s Pieta whicih he sculpted at just 24 years old.
Sicily
Sicily is often overlooked in favor of places like Rome and Venice. But this is an incredible place to see Roman mosaics, Norman churches, Greek temples, and Baroque towns. Life is more relaxed here, and you’ll enjoy some of the best food you’ve ever had. Be sure to visit the Monreale Duomo which you’ll find right outside of Palermo. Take your camera so you can capture the incredible mosaics and ceilings.
